Explore your world from Los Angeles to London. Visit the tranquil islands of Hawaii, revel in the stunning beauty of Bali and explore all the way to Africa's window to the western world.

Spectacular natural surroundings combined with the vitality of a creative and artistic community make Los Angeles one-of-a-kind. Sunshine, majestic palm trees and the sandy beaches of the Pacific share the spotlight with L.A.'s glamorous movie industry and its world-famous celebrities. Formally founded in 1781, it is now one of the world's largest metropolitan centers. Although there will not be any shore excursions offered in Los Angeles due to our limited time in port, you may contact our onboard Shore Excursion staff for helpful hints or suggestions on things to do while you are ashore.

Welcome to Hawaii. The Big Island is the youngest of the eight major Hawaiian Islands and Hilo is its largest city. Commanding Hawaii's wet eastern Hamakua Coast, Hilo is surrounded by lush forest, resplendently draped in flowers and greenery all year. Perhaps this natural gift is best showcased in Hilo's huge orchid farms.
Since Hawaii is also the largest member of the volcanic chain, it is fairly easy for visitors to find a secluded spot on a beach or a quiet trail traversing one of its natural preserves. Its lush eastern rainforests contrast sharply with the eerie lunar-like landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a must-see for first time visitors.
The old Lyman House Museum, a restored 19th-century home, provides an interesting, historical look at the region. One should also visit some of the beautiful waterfalls in the area. The western Kona Coast is widely known for its elegant resorts, rocky shore and agreeable dry climate.
The lifestyle here can only be described as "relaxed." People often signify their happy mood with the friendly shaka sign, made by folding one's three center fingers to the palm and shaking the wrist back and forth with the thumb and pinky extended. This is a common greeting in the islands and it indicates that all is going well.

"Aloha" and welcome to Oahu, Hawaii's great "gathering place." Asian- and American-influenced cultures combine to create a lifestyle where the tropical tempos of Polynesia prevail and the aloha spirit pervades every aspect of the culture.

Honolulu and Oahu are the center of island life and boast sandy beaches, endearing smiles and exotic tropical flowers. Nearby, elegant resorts and towering high-rises line the gentle curve of Waikiki Beach. In the distance, majestic Diamond Head Crater lies on the horizon beyond your Crystal ship.

The choices are many. Relive the historic events of Pearl Harbor, explore tropical rainforests or witness the creation of island culinary magic.

"Aloha" and welcome to Oahu, Hawaii's great "gathering place." Asian- and American-influenced cultures combine to create a lifestyle where the tropical tempos of Polynesia prevail and the aloha spirit pervades every aspect of the culture.

Honolulu and Oahu are the center of island life and boast sandy beaches, endearing smiles and exotic tropical flowers. Nearby, elegant resorts and towering high-rises line the gentle curve of Waikiki Beach. In the distance, majestic Diamond Head Crater lies on the horizon beyond your Crystal ship.

The choices are many. Relive the historic events of Pearl Harbor, explore tropical rainforests or witness the creation of island culinary magic.

The island of Guam is the westernmost unincorporated territory of the United States and is the largest of the Mariana archipelago. Guam is surrounded by a large barrier reef and is bordered to the southwest by the Marianas Trench, the deepest known area of the ocean. The earliest known inhabitants were the ancient Chamorros, who originated from Southeast Asia. However, since Magellan landed in 1521, this island has attracted settlers from many lands. As a result of the island's location and cultural make-up, Guam is considered part of Micronesia. During World War II, Guam played an important strategic role in the Pacific Theater. Numerous landmarks and memorials remain a stark reminder to the island's turbulent past. Today, Guam's natural beauty and history provide a never-ending source of interest. To the north is a plateau of rolling hills and cliffs, while to the south are mountains and valleys. The graceful remains of Spanish buildings, plazas and bridges may still be seen in Agana, while the latte stone foundations of ancient Chamorro thatch huts are preserved in parks and jungle areas. We welcome you ashore with a full complement of sightseeing excursions allowing you to discover Guam from the sea, air or by land.

The Mariana archipelago, a chain of 15 tropical isles located between Indonesia Japan, is home to Saipan, the largest of the islands and part of a Commonwealth of the United States. At the south end of the chain is Guam, which is a US territory. Getting Saipan pinned on a map may sound somewhat complicated—Asian, yet under US jurisdiction, east of the Philippines and north of New Guinea—yet it is exactly this kind of complexity that makes Saipan such an interesting destination. The island boasts both marvelous beaches and rugged mountains, along with WWII history and exciting chances to play in the surf and on the turf. Take your pick of five golf courses, two designed by Greg Norman. Do some scuba diving or snorkeling in inviting waters. Trek the trails of the bird sanctuary. For a real taste of local culture, sample locally grown mango or freshly caught tuna.

Okinawa is the southernmost of Japan's main islands and lies 500 miles beyond the archipelago. Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own, separate history stemming from the Ryukyu Kingdom of the 15th century. The nostalgia of royalty remains to this day, as sacred temples and an imperial castle blend with imposing skyscrapers and modern freeways.
Though poor in natural resources, the people of Okinawa became skillful mariners, turning the island into a thriving center of trade. Today, its unique culture combines influences from Europe, China, Japan and Southeast Asia.
During World War II, Okinawa was the only location in Japan where the Allies landed. From 1945 to 1972, the island was under the control of the United States military and numerous US military bases are still active today.
Beyond the modern capital of Naha lie peaceful panoramas of hills dotted with blooming bougainvillea. Due to its tropical climate, sugar cane fields, luminous seas and white beaches, Okinawa is sometimes known as Japan's Hawaii.

Japan's capital, Tokyo, and its bustling port of Yokohama form a vast urban complex that boasts a unique combination of energy and orderliness.

Fusing the vitality of a modern metropolis with the stately elegance of yesteryear, Tokyo is truly unique. From the timeless beauty of the Meiji Shrine to the glittering Ginza district and impressive Tokyo Tower, this international giant is a complex blend of East and West. Houses of wood and paper stand beside towering steel skyscrapers, while kimono-clad women stroll beside teenagers who have created a fashion all their own.

Japan's capital, Tokyo, and its bustling port of Yokohama form a vast urban complex that boasts a unique combination of energy and orderliness.

Fusing the vitality of a modern metropolis with the stately elegance of yesteryear, Tokyo is truly unique. From the timeless beauty of the Meiji Shrine to the glittering Ginza district and impressive Tokyo Tower, this international giant is a complex blend of East and West. Houses of wood and paper stand beside towering steel skyscrapers, while kimono-clad women stroll beside teenagers who have created a fashion all their own.

Japan's capital, Tokyo, and its bustling port of Yokohama form a vast urban complex that boasts a unique combination of energy and orderliness.

Fusing the vitality of a modern metropolis with the stately elegance of yesteryear, Tokyo is truly unique. From the timeless beauty of the Meiji Shrine to the glittering Ginza district and impressive Tokyo Tower, this international giant is a complex blend of East and West. Houses of wood and paper stand beside towering steel skyscrapers, while kimono-clad women stroll beside teenagers who have created a fashion all their own.

Osaka, as it was in the 16th century, still remains a city of commerce. Although the nature of the city hasn't changed, it is presently undergoing an architectural revolution, rejuvenating and redefining itself with a dazzling display of gleaming skyscrapers and towers. During the 4th and 5th centuries, Osaka and its surrounding towns and cities were at the core of the developing Japanese society. It was through these centers that Chinese merchants traded their goods with the rest of Japan. Chinese merchants not only brought goods, but new knowledge, technology and culture, all of which filtered into Japan through the port of Osaka. The effects of this cultural trade remain evident to this day in the form of Osaka's superb restaurants, dedicated theater and collection of impressive temples and steadfast castles. Due to Osaka's prime geography and successful seaport, it provides an excellent base from which to venture inland to some of Japan's most stunning and popular cities. The ancient capitals of sacred Kyoto and tranquil Nara beckon travelers with their power and majesty.

Osaka, as it was in the 16th century, still remains a city of commerce. Although the nature of the city hasn't changed, it is presently undergoing an architectural revolution, rejuvenating and redefining itself with a dazzling display of gleaming skyscrapers and towers. During the 4th and 5th centuries, Osaka and its surrounding towns and cities were at the core of the developing Japanese society. It was through these centers that Chinese merchants traded their goods with the rest of Japan. Chinese merchants not only brought goods, but new knowledge, technology and culture, all of which filtered into Japan through the port of Osaka. The effects of this cultural trade remain evident to this day in the form of Osaka's superb restaurants, dedicated theater and collection of impressive temples and steadfast castles. Due to Osaka's prime geography and successful seaport, it provides an excellent base from which to venture inland to some of Japan's most stunning and popular cities. The ancient capitals of sacred Kyoto and tranquil Nara beckon travelers with their power and majesty.

Nagasaki is a thriving city on Kyushu Island's northwestern shores. As Japan's only access to the West, it flourished during a period of national isolation in the 16th century and continues to be influenced by the ideas and technology of other cultures.
Must-see attractions include Japan's oldest gothic-style wooden church and the inspirational Peace Park. Also of particular note is the stately Glover Mansion, an impressive hideaway which was the legendary setting of Puccini's opera, Madame Butterfly.
A harmonious blend of ancient and modern influences will be yours to enjoy during your sojourn in Nagasaki.

Shanghai, located just inside the mouth of the great Yangtze River, marks the point where Asia's longest and most important river completes its 3,400-mile journey to the Pacific. The city's unique location is the source of its existence and has determined what it is today. Until 1842, Shanghai was merely a tiny fishing village. Following the first Opium War, Shanghai became a treaty port, which opened the city to foreign influence and resulted in the development of numerous British, French and American colonial settlements within the city and along the Yangtze River. Today, Shanghai is the center of China's economic resurgence and its skyline attests to this development in the form of towering skyscrapers, brightly lit commercial high-rises and the unsettling Oriental Pearl Tower. A testimony to Shanghai's colonial era, stately European buildings in art deco style line the Bund, the city's spacious waterfront promenade. An endless flotilla of sampans edge the Huangpu River, dividing old and new Shanghai. Beyond the rush of the city, serene ponds and gardens offer a gentle respite. Must-see sights include the Jade Buddha Temple and tranquil Yu Garden, impressive monuments to China's history and style. Inland lies Suzhou, with its majestic Grand Canal and classical gardens, as well as equally significant Hangzhou, terminus of the Grand Canal and the center of China's legendary tea industry.

Note: Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions.

Shanghai, located just inside the mouth of the great Yangtze River, marks the point where Asia's longest and most important river completes its 3,400-mile journey to the Pacific. The city's unique location is the source of its existence and has determined what it is today. Until 1842, Shanghai was merely a tiny fishing village. Following the first Opium War, Shanghai became a treaty port, which opened the city to foreign influence and resulted in the development of numerous British, French and American colonial settlements within the city and along the Yangtze River. Today, Shanghai is the center of China's economic resurgence and its skyline attests to this development in the form of towering skyscrapers, brightly lit commercial high-rises and the unsettling Oriental Pearl Tower. A testimony to Shanghai's colonial era, stately European buildings in art deco style line the Bund, the city's spacious waterfront promenade. An endless flotilla of sampans edge the Huangpu River, dividing old and new Shanghai. Beyond the rush of the city, serene ponds and gardens offer a gentle respite. Must-see sights include the Jade Buddha Temple and tranquil Yu Garden, impressive monuments to China's history and style. Inland lies Suzhou, with its majestic Grand Canal and classical gardens, as well as equally significant Hangzhou, terminus of the Grand Canal and the center of China's legendary tea industry.

Note: Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions.

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony. The bustling city streets are lined with teeming markets and sophisticated boutiques tucked tightly into any available crevice. Some of the world's best shopping is found in Central, located on Hong Kong Island and only a short ferry ride away. Discover the beauty and magic of Hong Kong today!

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony. The bustling city streets are lined with teeming markets and sophisticated boutiques tucked tightly into any available crevice. Some of the world's best shopping is found in Central, located on Hong Kong Island and only a short ferry ride away. Discover the beauty and magic of Hong Kong today!

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony. The bustling city streets are lined with teeming markets and sophisticated boutiques tucked tightly into any available crevice. Some of the world's best shopping is found in Central, located on Hong Kong Island and only a short ferry ride away. Discover the beauty and magic of Hong Kong today!

"In Singapore, at Saigon, one exists; at Hanoi, one lives."-Joleaud-Barral, French geographer. One of the great natural wonders of Asia, the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, or the "Bay of the Descending Dragon," is outstanding. Speckled with over 3,000 karst mountains bursting from the calm water, is Ha Long Bay. Local myths hold that when the forefathers of the land were fighting foreign invaders from the north, the gods from heaven sent a family of dragons to help defend their land. The dragons descended upon what is now Ha Long Bay and began spitting out jewels and jade, which turned into islands and islets upon hitting the sea. The islands functioned as natural barriers against the invaders and the local people survived and vowed eternal honor to the dragon's mercy. Not only is Ha Long Bay's landscape spectacular, but Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi, is easily within reach. Hanoi lies in sometimes stark contrast with its southern sister city. While in Saigon, one sees Vietnam's future; in Hanoi, one sees its past. In a city with a population of 2.6 million people and approximately 2 million motorbikes, the downtown intersections represent a free-for-all between pedestrians and cyclists. Surprisingly, Hanoians aren't rushed and scrambling as are the Saigonese. Instead, they stroll and linger, converse and reflect. Old-fashioned in style, Hanoi is a city of lakes and parks, tree-lined, bicycle-filled boulevards, elegant colonial mansions and villas, all of which testify of its French legacy. Venturing into the city is a must and will provide you with a microcosm of Vietnamese culture and a truly memorable experience. Enjoy your adventures ashore!

"In Singapore, at Saigon, one exists; at Hanoi, one lives."-Joleaud-Barral, French geographer. One of the great natural wonders of Asia, the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, or the "Bay of the Descending Dragon," is outstanding. Speckled with over 3,000 karst mountains bursting from the calm water, is Ha Long Bay. Local myths hold that when the forefathers of the land were fighting foreign invaders from the north, the gods from heaven sent a family of dragons to help defend their land. The dragons descended upon what is now Ha Long Bay and began spitting out jewels and jade, which turned into islands and islets upon hitting the sea. The islands functioned as natural barriers against the invaders and the local people survived and vowed eternal honor to the dragon's mercy. Not only is Ha Long Bay's landscape spectacular, but Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi, is easily within reach. Hanoi lies in sometimes stark contrast with its southern sister city. While in Saigon, one sees Vietnam's future; in Hanoi, one sees its past. In a city with a population of 2.6 million people and approximately 2 million motorbikes, the downtown intersections represent a free-for-all between pedestrians and cyclists. Surprisingly, Hanoians aren't rushed and scrambling as are the Saigonese. Instead, they stroll and linger, converse and reflect. Old-fashioned in style, Hanoi is a city of lakes and parks, tree-lined, bicycle-filled boulevards, elegant colonial mansions and villas, all of which testify of its French legacy. Venturing into the city is a must and will provide you with a microcosm of Vietnamese culture and a truly memorable experience. Enjoy your adventures ashore!

In Chan May, Crystal Cruises will dock closer to Hue, allowing you to see this important imperial city at a more relaxed pace.

Indeed, Hue (pronounced "hway") merits a full-day excursion. Having served as the Vietnamese capital from 1802 to 1945, the city was home to thirteen emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. Its three walled enclosures, built concentrically around one another, are collectively called the Citadel-an appropriate name, given that the emperor and his family lived within the Forbidden Purple City, located at the Citadel's center. The term "Forbidden" is appropriate too, as the Royal Palace resembles Beijing's Forbidden City.

Fascinating as it is, Hue is not the only sight to be explored during your call in Chan May. You will also have a chance to visit the historic commercial seaport of Hoi An, see the city of Da Nang, or head to China Beach, the stretch of sand that offered some R & R to U.S. soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a stimulating insight into Vietnam's eventful past and a glimpse into its hopeful future. Over two decades have passed since American forces left these shores. Since then, Ho Chi Minh City has regained a prosperous air of thriving activity. Rice boats float down the waterways, streets bustle with commerce, scooters speed by and a sense of history fills the air. There are quiet temples to discover, French colonial public buildings to admire and numerous street markets to stroll. Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can be assured of a friendly and hospitable welcome. Ho Chi Minh City serves as our main gateway to the alluring wonders of Cambodia (Kampuchea).

Note: Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a stimulating insight into Vietnam's eventful past and a glimpse into its hopeful future. Over two decades have passed since American forces left these shores. Since then, Ho Chi Minh City has regained a prosperous air of thriving activity. Rice boats float down the waterways, streets bustle with commerce, scooters speed by and a sense of history fills the air. There are quiet temples to discover, French colonial public buildings to admire and numerous street markets to stroll. Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can be assured of a friendly and hospitable welcome. Ho Chi Minh City serves as our main gateway to the alluring wonders of Cambodia (Kampuchea).

Note: Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a stimulating insight into Vietnam's eventful past and a glimpse into its hopeful future. Over two decades have passed since American forces left these shores. Since then, Ho Chi Minh City has regained a prosperous air of thriving activity. Rice boats float down the waterways, streets bustle with commerce, scooters speed by and a sense of history fills the air. There are quiet temples to discover, French colonial public buildings to admire and numerous street markets to stroll. Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can be assured of a friendly and hospitable welcome. Ho Chi Minh City serves as our main gateway to the alluring wonders of Cambodia (Kampuchea).

Note: Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a stimulating insight into Vietnam's eventful past and a glimpse into its hopeful future. Over two decades have passed since American forces left these shores. Since then, Ho Chi Minh City has regained a prosperous air of thriving activity. Rice boats float down the waterways, streets bustle with commerce, scooters speed by and a sense of history fills the air. There are quiet temples to discover, French colonial public buildings to admire and numerous street markets to stroll. Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can be assured of a friendly and hospitable welcome. Ho Chi Minh City serves as our main gateway to the alluring wonders of Cambodia (Kampuchea).

Note: Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions.

Founded in 1964 to be Cambodia's primary deepwater port, Sihanoukville has since become a popular tourist destination. It is no wonder, as this spot on the Gulf of Thailand features tropical breezes and beautiful beaches, while nearby islands promise fantastic diving, snorkeling and game fishing. Just inland is the wonder of Angkor Wat, offering an intriguing glimpse into the spectacular achievements of Southeast Asia's greatest civilization. The ruins of this 800-year-old city were rediscovered in the late 19th century and bears testament to the influence this once-powerful city has on Cambodia's modern culture.

This emerald isle off Thailand's southeast coast, ringed by lovely beaches and gorgeous bays, enjoys both the fun-loving nature of the Thai people, and the peaceful serenity of Buddhism. Visit the beautiful waterfalls at Hin Lut and Na Muang, marvel at the enormous Buddha statue on Fan Isle, or just listen to the breeze whisper in the leaves of a coconut plantation.

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia's greatest success stories.
Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the "Crossroads of the East."

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia's greatest success stories.
Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the "Crossroads of the East."

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia's greatest success stories.
Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the "Crossroads of the East."

One of Asia’s most electrifying urban centers, Jakarta is a sprawling, heavily populated city of almost 10 million people. Famous for its shopping, people come to Jakarta from all over the world to snap up bargains, both in traditional open-air marketplaces and ritzy super malls. The region is particularly known for its batik outlets and factories. Despite being the capital of the world’s largest Islamic country, Jakarta has one of the hippest nightlife scenes in Southeast Asia, with over 200 bars, discos, pubs and upscale lounges spread across the city.

In the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa, 560 miles from Madagascar – the island nation of Mauritius is easy to pinpoint, but difficult to describe. A wild outpost until the 17th century, the island has been ruled by the Dutch, French and British, gaining its independence from the latter in 1968. Languages spoken: French, English and a local form of Creole. Religions practiced: Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Climate: tropical. Landscape: “heaven,” at least as described by Mark Twain and the island’s many visitors. Being one of them, you may enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming in coral-reef-laced waters and deep-sea fishing, and partake in culinary delights that mix the distinct flavors of Mauritius’s varied cultures.

With a subtropical climate and golden beaches lining its shores, Durban is one of South Africa's most popular holiday destinations.
It embodies an intriguing blend of Eastern, Western and African influences. Along the palm-fringed beachfront, Zulu women sell beads and baskets while colorful rickshaw pullers pose for photographs. Just minutes away from the office blocks, theaters and shops of the business center, is a world of mosques, temples oriental festivals and bazaars, fragrant with spice and incense. The city's cosmopolitan charm even extends to its many inviting restaurants, which offer mouth-watering cuisine from around the world.
Since a recent facelift, several thoroughfares have been converted into pedestrian malls complete with sidewalk cafes, shrubs and palm trees; portions of the road network have been upgraded to promote easier traffic flow; and the main beaches have been widened and enhanced with new facilities.
Durban is truly the "Golden Mile" of South Africa.

Port Elizabeth’s location at the end of the Garden Route hints at what makes the town so appealing. Certainly, it has its share of cultural attractions, including the King George VI Art Gallery, which houses treasures such as 19th- and 20th-century British art and Oriental miniatures. But the real gems of the area are of the out-of-doors type. In addition to being famous for its fine beaches and mild climate, Port Elizabeth (often shortened to “PE”) is considered the water sports capital of South Africa, with scuba diving, game fishing and kiteboarding being ever-popular pursuits. Wildlife is revered and closely observable at numerous eco-centered attractions, including the Oceanarium, showcasing daily dolphin and seal shows, and the Snake Park & Tropical House, home to exotic and indigenous snakes and featuring streams, waterfalls and free-flying birds. The area outside of town offers exciting game-viewing opportunities, with the Addo Elephant Park being a particular highlight.

With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies one of the most dramatic locations in the world. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past, in tandem with the 20th century's more functional demands. Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved and there are several outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Cobble-stoned streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel houses of the Malay Quarter showcase the city's cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearby, images of seafaring activities from the 1800s are evoked at the recently-restored Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Magnificent Cape Town is justifiably famous as the "Mother City" of South Africa.

With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies one of the most dramatic locations in the world. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past, in tandem with the 20th century's more functional demands. Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved and there are several outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Cobble-stoned streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel houses of the Malay Quarter showcase the city's cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearby, images of seafaring activities from the 1800s are evoked at the recently-restored Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Magnificent Cape Town is justifiably famous as the "Mother City" of South Africa.

With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies one of the most dramatic locations in the world. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past, in tandem with the 20th century's more functional demands. Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved and there are several outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Cobble-stoned streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel houses of the Malay Quarter showcase the city's cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearby, images of seafaring activities from the 1800s are evoked at the recently-restored Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Magnificent Cape Town is justifiably famous as the "Mother City" of South Africa.

The busy industrial town of Walvis Bay lies at the dramatic juxtaposition of ocean and desert. Its development began in 1878, when Commander Richard C. Dryer took possession of the port and settlement in Queen Victoria's name.

In March 1994, following extensive negotiations with the Republic of South Africa, Walvis Bay and its offshore islands were incorporated into the Republic of Namibia.

Highlights of Walvis Bay include an impressive Civic Center and the Rhenish Mission Church, which was build in Hamburg in 1880 before being dismantled and shipped to these shores.

Our visit to Namibia provides rare insight into one of Southwest Africa's most fascinating regions.

A history marred by slavery, poverty and almost 40 years of civil war has not prevented Angola from emerging as a travel destination, albeit one for adventurers who don’t mind witnessing—and even wish to see—the very real and sometimes disturbing conditions of west-coast Africa. This is a hot land, an equatorial destination on the Atlantic Ocean slung between Namibia to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, and Zambia to the east. Angola’s African locale is enriched by Portuguese culture. In fact, Angola was once a Portuguese colony, and to this day the primary language is Portuguese and a widely observed religion is Catholicism. Angola is also literally enriched by vast oil reserves and diamond deposits. In its capital city of Luanda, prosperous businessmen meet in the hotels and dine in the restaurants. For them and anyone who visits, Angola’s beaches and recently revived wildlife parks offer enjoyable excursions.

A small forest-covered, volcanic island tucked away in the Gulf of Guinea, Bom Bom Island is world-renowned for its fishing opportunities. Wahoo, barracuda, dorado and cubera snapper are only a few of the varieties of fish that can be trolled for as you enjoy the indulgent bliss of a privately-chartered fishing boat. Bom Bom Island Resort captures the essence of an island retreat with secluded golden beaches, swaying coconut fronds, and balmy 80-degree tropical water.

This small nugget in the former “Gold Coast” of West Africa is a city steeped in the history of the former slavery and gold harvesting trades. Cape Coast Castle, which served as the British slavery headquarters for over 200 years, provides a unique peek into Takoradi’s rich past. Images of women cleaning the local catch of the day, as well as men preparing to use their dugout canoes, adds to the colorful atmosphere that this swirling and vibrant city exudes.

This French-influenced city known as “West Africa’s Window to the Western World” is situated at the mouth of a river that stems from Africa’s inner regions. A modern city, Dakar’s streets are lined with elegant colonial-styled buildings, colorful markets, and excellent art galleries. Goree Island, the former primary assembly point for slave shipments to the New World is a mere ferry ride away. A closer look into the House of Slaves provides a window into the tumultuous past of this country, and brings a deeper understanding of this culturally diverse city.

A popular destination for sun-worshippers, Agadir is the center of the Barbary Coast's chic resort area and enjoys a lovely warm temperature year-round.
A modern city, Agadir was completely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake struck in 1960. In sharp contrast, the nearby antique city of Taroudant makes a pleasant destination for explorers.

Cosmopolitan Lisbon was the center of the world's last great colonial empire. Today the city nostalgically reveres its imperial past while adapting to Portugal's role as a member of the European Economic Community. Although located on the Atlantic coast, Lisbon has the soul of a Mediterranean city with Moorish castles, pastel and white buildings, orange-tiled roofs and luminous blue skies. Set amid the hills and valleys of the northern shore of the River Tagus, it is one of the loveliest capitals in the world.